In Summary

The Teachers Service Commission has dismissed claims that it will not register students with the Diploma in Education from four universities.

TSC secretary Gabriel Lengoiboni said that proof of a bridging course, where minimum requirements have not been met, is what they require instead.

Last week, Education assistant minister Ayiecho Olweny told Parliament that four universities — Moi, Egerton, Methodist and Mount Kenya — were offering diplomas that are not recognised by the teachers’ employer, effectively locking them out of government jobs.

Mr Lengoiboni, however, dismissed these claims, saying supporting documents is all they required, and that they had not blacklisted any university.

“We have not blacklisted any university but where the minimum requirement of a minimum C-plus has not been met, which includes a C in English and the same in Maths for science-based subjects, we require proof of bridging from a recognised institution,” Mr Lengoiboni told the Nation.

Mr Olweny, on Thursday last week, said that the four universities admit students who do not meet the TSC’s minimum qualifications and this is why the organisation cannot recognise them.

He said the government is instructing the affected institutions to follow the rules to avoid causing distress to students. It is also advising students to take bridging courses before going for diplomas, he added.

“The question of blacklisting should not arise. We have not blacklisted anyone. All we are asking for is proof of bridging from a recognised institution. And for students who have these, they are employed,” said Mr Lengoiboni.

MPs found the minister’s response to a question on the qualification unsatisfactory. Eldama Ravine MP Moses Lessonet had asked the minister to state what action he will take to ensure that the graduates are not frustrated.